Special Olympics Bharat recently launched India’s football team for the Gothia Cup 2026 at a ceremony in the Embassy of Sweden, New Delhi. The prestigious event will take place in Gothenburg, Sweden, from July 12 to July 18. The Indian team aims to secure a hat-trick of victories after clinching the previous two titles in the Special Olympics Trophy category.
The athletes received a warm send-off from notable figures including Jan Thesleff, the Ambassador of Sweden to India, Ashish Sood from the Government of NCT of Delhi, and Sujeeth Pai from SKF India (Industrial) Limited. This support acknowledges the team’s dedication and boosts their morale as they head to Sweden for the renowned youth football tournament.
Comprising 10 athletes and two coaches from nine states and Union Territories, the Indian contingent was chosen through a rigorous national qualifying tournament held at the Centre for Defence Sports (CDS), Gwalior, in April 2026. Following a selection process involving over 150 athletes from 16 states, the final squad underwent extensive national training camps to prepare for the competition in Gothenburg.
The Gothia Cup, established in 1975 and hosted annually in Gothenburg, Sweden, attracts over 1,900 teams from 70+ countries each year. Since 2011, the Special Olympics Trophy has provided a platform for athletes with intellectual disabilities to showcase their skills on an international stage alongside teams worldwide.
Dr. Mallika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat and Chairperson of Special Olympics Asia Pacific, commended the team’s past achievements and expressed confidence in their potential to secure a historic third consecutive victory at the Gothia Cup 2026. She emphasized the team’s role in inspiring others through their dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
SKF India (Industrial) and Special Olympics Bharat have collaborated over the years to enable athletes with intellectual disabilities to compete globally. Their partnership has facilitated India’s participation in the Gothia Cup by supporting athlete selection, training programs, and international exposure. SKF’s longstanding association with the Gothia Cup and Special Olympics underscores its commitment to promoting inclusion through sports and providing opportunities for athletes to excel at the highest level.
